TROY, N.Y. — Assemblyman John McDonald III and U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko will be honored with others at the annual "I Love Unity House Gala" on Feb. 8.

Unity House will recognize three groups of honorees — Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan (CDPHP); community volunteers Clara Hunt, Charlena Keels, and Louise Liberty; and U.S. Congressman Paul Tonko and Assemblyman John McDonald III — for their work as outstanding community service members, according to a news release.

Officials said that these honorees have made significant efforts towards making the Capital Region a better place to live and have been long-time supporters of the organization and will be recognized for their contributions at the annual “I Love Unity House Gala” on Friday, Feb. 8 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Troy.

According to the release, CDPHP upholds its mission to “Help Us Make a Difference” through its philanthropy and service and by promoting health, wellness, education and cultural vibrancy. With deep roots in the communities it serves, CDPHP supports the mission of countless civic, cultural and charitable organizations by donating both time and money. CDPHP employees also contribute thousands of volunteer hours to improve the lives of residents in their communities.

“CDPHP’s dedication to making a difference in the community helps make it possible for Unity House to continue to thrive and help others,” said Unity House CEO Chris Burke in the release. “We are fortunate to have been positively impacted by the generosity of CDPHP and the employees who volunteer their time with us and we are pleased to honor this organization for its longstanding support of our programs.”

Officials noted how they believe that Clara Hunt, Charlena Keels and Louise Liberty exemplify what it means to give back in the local community. Unity House will honor them as Community Heroes.

“As a group, Clara, Charlena and Louise have been a fixture at Unity House for many years. They have made a significant impact on all the people we serve here every day, said Burke. “They truly represent what it means to be a Community Hero and we are so thankful for their involvement in Unity House and their dedication to bettering our community.”

As public officials, Tonko and McDonald have continuously shown their support for local and regional non-profit organizations like Unity House that serve the less fortunate in our community, according to officials with Unity House.

“Congressman Tonko and Assemblymember McDonald continue to represent the core values of Unity House and show time and time again their passion for evoking change,” said Burke. “They show true compassion for the people and the communities they serve and are dedicated to addressing the struggles individuals and families face.”

For information about reservations for the "I Love Unity House Gala", call 518.274.2607, ext. 4139.